2013 Buick Enclave ramps up tech, safety features

View full sizeExterior design cues make the Enclave appear smaller than it really is. John M. Vincent/The Oregonian

The 2008 Buick Enclave was the first vehicle to arrive for what could be hailed as the “new Buick.”

It was designed to appeal to a broader and younger audience than previous models, and by that measure it has been very successful. For 2013, Buick didn’t mess with that formula too much, just updating the exterior, interior, features, and safety tech to excel in the large crossover segment.

Although the Enclave’s curvy design makes it look like a mid-size crossover, climbing inside reveals that it is truly a spacious, full-size vehicle. Depending on the configuration of the second row, the Enclave is capable of up to 8-passenger seating, making it a northwest climate-friendly all-wheel drive alternative to luxury minivans. There’s room for 23.3 cubic feet of groceries or luggage in back, even with all three rows of seats employed.

View full sizeThe cabin features a 7-inch audio display and an app-based information and entertainment system.John M. Vincent/The Oregonian

LED running lights and a new fascia have updated the Enclave’s looks in the front, while LED taillights have modernized the rear view. All models feature HID projector headlights trimmed with Buick’s signature blue rings.

On the inside, almost every surface has been updated with modern, high-end materials. The soft-touch dash and leather-wrapped shifter feature real stitching, for a rich look and feel. The test car was fitted with the interestingly named “Choccachino” leather interior.

Whatever you call it, the multi-toned brown interior was excellent in both quality and appearance. The ice-blue ambient lighting is some of the best in the business.

View full sizeThe 2013 Enclave has a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with direct injection, as well as a refined 6-speed automatic transmission.John M. Vincent/The Oregonian

Buick has traditionally done an admirable job at reducing cabin noise, and the 2013 Enclave is no exception. Strategically placed sound insulation and laminated acoustic glass, along with tight door and window sealing, provide for a quieter ride than found in many competitors.

The 2013 is equipped with Buick’s easy-to-understand and capable Intellilink app-based information and entertainment system. Leveraging the power of the OnStar telematics system along with the driver’s smart phone, Intellilink pulls Bluetooth integration and apps including Pandora and Stitcher into one easy-to-use interface.

A 3.6-liter V-6 with direct injection continues as the only engine option, while the 6-speed automatic transmission has been refined. Where the older generation seemed to hunt for the proper gear at times, the new gearbox is more decisive and confident. The mileage of the Enclave isn’t exceptional, but its large size and utility somewhat offsets the thirsty 16/city and 22/highway EPA mileage estimates.

Where the Enclave and its sisters (Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia) shine is with safety technology. Beyond the standard suite of traction and stability controls, the Enclave features available blind-spot warning and rear cross traffic monitoring.

View full sizeThe 2013 Enclave features 3 spacious rows of seating and ample cargo area, even with all three rows up.John M. Vincent/The Oregonian

The trio of GM full-size crossovers also features the industry’s first application of a center side-impact airbag. Emerging from the inside of the driver’s seat, the center airbag prevents the driver and passenger from colliding with one another in a severe side impact collision.

The car received a Five-Star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.